BERKELEY -Allan Bridgford has left the Cal football team and intends to transfer prior to the 2013 football season the fifth-year senior quarterback announced Monday.

"Today I asked for my release from the University of California football program," Bridgford said. "I was recruited by former coach Jeff Tedford to play quarterback in a pro-style offense that was tailored to my strengths, which are my abilities to make all the throws, my decision making and my leadership."

"As the team's most experienced quarterback, I expected to take the majority of reps this spring," Bridgford added. "But after having limited reps in the first four spring practices, I met with both offensive coordinator Sonny Dykes. It was made clear to me that they had decided to go in a different direction. Therefore, it is time to move on and find a school where I can play right away and hopefully for two seasons if I'm granted a sixth year of eligibility. I love Cal, my teammates and brothers, our fans and the program. I made many of my best friends for life here. Without a doubt I plan to graduate from Cal this summer. Go Bears!"

Bridgford played in 10 games with three starts (all in 2012) during four seasons at Cal from 2009-12. He completed 44-of-100 passes for 461 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions. He also had one rushing touchdown.

"We wish Allan all the best both on the football field and in the classroom," Dykes said. "He is a quality quarterback that should have success in an offense suited for his skill set. His contributions to Cal football over the past four years are appreciated, and we are pleased that he has decided to graduate from Cal this summer."